Cote d'Ivoire: Afcon - I Can't Believe We Won, Says Cote d'Ivoire Coach

Supporters of the Ivorian national team.
13 February 2024

Emerse Fae, coach of the Elephants of Cote d'Ivoire, says he still finds it hard to believe that his team won Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023.

Fae, at the post-match press conference, said he was overwhelmed by the great feeling of guiding the Elephants to glory on home soil.

Cote d'Ivoire came from behind to seal a 2-1 victory over Nigeria at a packed Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpe on Sunday evening.

The man who took over from Jean-Louis Gasset said it was hard to fathom that they came from almost being knocked out, to winning the title.

"I still find it hard to believe it. We went through all the emotions. This competition will mark my life, that's for sure.

"I took the reins of the team on my birthday, and we were almost knocked out, yet things turned around.

"Thanks to the hard work of these players and today they have been rewarded and more importantly, they rewarded our loyal people," said the coach.

Fae also took home the Best Coach of the Tournament award for showing tactical acumen in guiding the Elephants to the trophy.

AllAfrica publishes around 400 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.